Brain optimization expert Jim Kwik has written a motivating book “Limitless Mindset”. Kwik defines unlimiting as “the act or process of casting aside inaccurate and restrictive perceptions of one’s potential and embracing the reality that, with the right mindset, motivation and methods, there are no limitations. The author’s Limitless Model has three components:

– Limitless Mindset – “Deeply held beliefs, attitudes and assumptions we create about who we are, how the world works, what we are capable of and deserve and what is possible”.
– Limitless Motivation – “The purpose one has for taking action. The energy required for someone to behave in a particular way”.
– Limitless Methods – “A specific process for accomplishing something, especially in an orderly, logical or systematic way of instruction”.

The Limitless Mindset focuses on one’s belief system. Unfortunately, our belief systems are negatively impacted by seven myths that we frequently tell ourselves. Kwik calls these LIES (Limited Ideas Entertained) that “stall us or steer us in a direction we don’t want”. The seven myths are:

1. Myth 1 – Intelligence is Fixed

Kwik refers to the work of psychologist Carol Dweck who describes the difference between a fixed and a growth mindset. Dweck writes, “In a fixed mindset, we believe our basic abilities, our intelligence, our talents, are just fixed traits. We have a certain amount and that’s that, and our goal becomes to look smart all the time and never look dumb. In a growth mindset, we understand that our talents and abilities can be developed through effort, good teaching and persistence”. Kwik writes, “With the fixed mindset, things are the way they are – we are powerless to change them. With the growth mindset, we have the ability to change anything”. Kwik’s new belief: “Intelligence is fluid”.

2. Myth 2 – We Only Use 10 Percent of Our Brains

Kwik quotes neuroscientist David Eagleman who says, “We would be capable of exactly what we’re doing now, which is to say, we do use a hundred percent of our brain”. Kwik cites several studies that back up Eagleman’s conclusion. He writes, “Scientists have determined that the brain’s regions have distinct functions that work together. After extensively mapping the brain over decades, they’ve concluded that there are no functionless areas of the brain”. Kwik’s new belief: “I am learning to use my whole brain in the best way possible”.

3. Myth 3 – Mistakes are Failures

Kwik laments the reality that “too many of us don’t come close to our capacities because we are too afraid of making a mistake. Instead of looking at mistakes as proof of failure, take them as proof that you are trying”. He believes that “mistakes don’t mean failure. Mistakes are a sign that you are trying something new. You might think you have to be perfect, but life is not about comparing yourself to anyone else; it’s about measuring yourself compared to who you were yesterday. When you learn from your mistakes, they have the power to turn you into something better than you were before”. Kwik’s new belief: “There is no such thing as failure. Only failure to learn”.

4. Myth 4 – Knowledge is Power

Kwik writes, “Knowledge is important, but it is “the performing of some action” that is required to make it powerful…Knowledge is not power. It only has the potential to be power”. Kwik’s new belief: “Knowledge X Action = Power”.

Myth 5 – Learning New Things is Very Difficult

Kwik writes, “The truth is that learning won’t always be easy, but the effort pays dividends. In fact, learning should be at least a little uncomfortable; otherwise you’re mostly reinforcing what you already know”. He continues by stating that “the key is to take small, simple steps”. He believes that learning requires patience, consistency, motivation and knowing how to learn (that he describes in his book). Kwik’s new belief: “When you learn new ways how to learn, the challenge of learning new things can be fun, easier and more enjoyable”.

Myth 6 – The Criticism of Other People Matters

Kwik writes, “The biggest travesty in the world is people preventing and limiting themselves from expressing who they really are because they’re afraid of what other people think…Part of being limitless is learning to let go of the fear of criticism from other people”. He believes “people will doubt you and criticize you no matter what you do. You will never know your true potential until you break the unfair judgments you place on yourself. Don’t allow other people’s opinions and expectations to run or ruin your life”. Kwik’s new belief: “It’s not your job to like, love or respect me. It’s mine”.

Myth 7 – Genius is Born

Kwik quotes author Daniel Coyle who argues that “greatness isn’t born, it’s grown”. Kwik’s experience is that “through deep practice, ignition and master coaching, anyone can develop a talent so deep that it looks like genius”. Having a lot of motivation and a desire to work hard to improve oneself will result in genius. “Genius leaves clues. There is always a method behind what looks like magic”. Kwik’s new belief: “Genius is not born; it’s made through deep practice”.

Kwik urges his readers to dismiss the above limiting beliefs that he refers to as myths. “When you convince yourself that any of these are true, you’re giving yourself an unnecessary burden to carry around”.